'Dangerous' Bulk Container Washes Ashore On Newcastle Beach

 BY IAN CROUCH

Newcastle Beach was closed for several hours on Sunday after a bulk container marked as being dangerous materials washed ashore.

Firefighters set up a 200 metre exclusion zone amid concerns the contents, which first appeared to be hydrochloric acid, could leak into the water.

Further inspection revealed the container was most likely filled with waste oil.

Crews safely decanted the contents into HAZMAT drums which were taken to a Newcastle Council depot for collection by a contractor.

A similar container washed ashore on Sydney's Northern Beaches several days ago - it's believed the containers may have fallen from a passing ship.

Firefighters in protective clothing decanted the contents of the bulk container into HAZMAT drums. Picture: Merewether Fire & Rescue

State Grant Transforms South Newcastle

BY SANZIANA TIMIS

Newcastle City Council and the NSW Government have announced a new $11 million partnership to reconstruct and transform South Newcastle Beach.

The development, funded by a $5 million state grant, will see the creation of an accessible skate bowl, modern kiosk and outdoor gym.

The skate bowl will be equipped with electric blue lighting, and Council is also promising Indigenous Art Installations, new public amenities and stylish landscaping over the next two years.

Russel Grundy, Australia's two-time street skating champion believes South Newcastle will further support the growth of local talent, "The skate park is like nothing we have in the region, so it's going to be awesome not only for skaters, but BMXers too."

The Bathers Way pathway will also undergo upgrades, which the council continue to request for funding to complete the final two-sections of Bathers Way between South Newcastle and Bar Beach.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes says, "The intermediate-level skate bowl and surrounding exercise facilities will cater to a diverse range of activities, promote healthy lifestyles and more economic activity."

"The design is absolutely breathtaking," she continued, "This is going to be one of the biggest infrastructure projects ever undertaken on our coastline and is another step in the transformation of our city into one of Australia's most beautiful and stunning coastlines."

Artist's Impression of the new precinct.